Keyboard instruments have been shaping music across centuries, from classical concert halls to modern-day studios. This guide covers the most popular types, how they work, and which models are best for beginners looking to dive into the world of keys.
Table of Contents
- How Keyboard Instruments Work
- Types of Keyboard Instruments
- Full Keyboard Instrument List
- Conclusion
- FAQs
How Keyboard Instruments Work
Most keyboard instruments produce sound in one of three ways:
- Striking strings (like in acoustic pianos and clavichords)
- Plucking strings (like harpsichords and spinets)
- Airflow through pipes (like organs)
Each method creates a unique tone and playing experience. Whether you’re looking for authentic acoustic sounds or synthesized digital creativity, there’s a keyboard instrument for every musician.
Types of Keyboard Instruments
Piano
The piano is a cornerstone of modern music. Common types include:
- Grand Piano: Rich tone and large size, ideal for performance halls
- Upright Piano: Compact and suitable for homes and studios
- Digital Piano: Affordable, portable, and great for learners
Top pick for beginners: Yamaha P71 Digital Piano – includes weighted keys and comes bundled with a stand and sustain pedal.
- Acoustic Piano Feel – Touch-sensitive keys allow for true expression and dynamic performance. The weighted action replicates the acoustic piano experience
- Elevated Sound – Choose from 10 unique Voices, including the richness and resonance of a Yamaha grand piano, with full dynamic sound and deep bass
- Effortless Control – Simple one-button operation and streamlined functionality designed to keep you focused on your music
- Layered Sound – Dual Mode lets you blend two Voices, like piano and strings, creating a rich, layered sound for an inspiring new playing experience
- Included sustain pedal allows for subtle variations and greater expression in your performances
Organ
Organs produce sound by pushing air through pipes or speakers. They’re iconic in churches, theaters, and progressive rock bands. Electronic models are now more accessible than ever.
Great beginner option: Yamaha PSR-E383 Keyboard – features organ voices, built-in lessons, and a sleek interface.
- 61 Touch-Sensitive Keys – Develops proper playing technique, perfect for beginners.
- Keys to Success – Guides you to learn songs one step at a time (or one hand at a time ) at your own pace.
- Touch Tutor – Teaches you how to play music at different volumes based on touch.
- Smart Chord – Easily play great-sounding chords – from simple pop triads to complex jazz chords – with just one finger.
- Built-in songs –Perfect for all ages and levels with hundreds of popular hits, children’s songs, classics, and more.
Electronic Keyboard & Synthesizer
Synthesizers and electronic keyboards open up endless sonic possibilities. They’re essential for music production, live performance, and learning sound design.
Top budget-friendly choice: Alesis Harmony 61 Pro – includes 61 keys, built-in speakers, and lesson modes for learners.
- Electronic keyboard with 61 full-size keys, user adjustable touch response, pitch-bend wheel, X/Y performance touchpad, Mix mode with DJ-style FX, and 30 different styles with 5 sections each
- 580 premium sounds with Layer and Split mode functionality, 64-note max polyphony, plus the ability to sample your own sounds using the built-in microphone
- Easy control panel featuring a backlit LCD screen that shows you the notation and built-in chord dictionary; Powerful and clear 30W (15W x 2) stereo speaker system
- On-board FX – Including 10 Reverb, 8 Chorus, and 2 Slicer effects for adding additional depth to your sound; 180 built-in auto-accompaniment patterns and built-in metronome adjustable from 5-280 BPM
- 177 built-in songs with lesson functionality and USB-MIDI connection for use with educational and recording software. Record your performance as a high-quality lossless .WAV file (16-bit, 44.1kHz) using the SD card input
Accordion
The accordion combines keyboard mechanics with air-driven reeds. It’s popular in folk, Cajun, and Latin genres. While it’s less common, it’s a rewarding instrument for those wanting something different.
Beginner-friendly accordion: Hohner Accordion 1305 – great tone, responsive buttons, and quality build for learners.
- Great entry-level piano accordion!
- 72 Bass keys
- 34 Piano keys
- 5 Treble registers with one repeat
- Tremolo tuning
Harpsichord
The harpsichord was a precursor to the piano. It plucks strings rather than striking them, offering a unique, sharp tone that’s perfect for Baroque compositions.
While not common in beginner collections, digital harpsichord sounds can be accessed through synthesizers or sample libraries.
Full Keyboard Instrument List
- Grand Piano
- Upright Piano
- Digital Piano
- Electronic Keyboard
- Synthesizer
- Organ
- Accordion
- Harpsichord
- Spinet
- Virginal
Conclusion
Whether you’re just getting started or looking to expand your musical horizons, keyboard instruments offer endless opportunities to express yourself. Choose the right instrument based on your goals, budget, and musical style—and let your journey begin.
FAQs
What are the main types of keyboard instruments?
The primary types include pianos (grand, upright, digital), organs (pipe, electronic), synthesizers, and harpsichords. Each offers unique sound production methods and tonal qualities.
Which keyboard instrument is best for beginners?
How do digital pianos differ from electronic keyboards?
What is the difference between a synthesizer and a digital piano?
A synthesizer generates a wide range of sounds electronically and is used for sound design and music production. A digital piano focuses on emulating the acoustic piano experience.